In 2022, the Aesthetica Film Festival is York’s largest cultural event. There is plenty to look forward to, with over 300 film screenings, industry-led masterclasses and a range of networking and social opportunities available across 15 locations in York.
Aesthetica is about more than film screenings, and they are thrilled to host events across the week that develop creativity, make meaningful connections and offer new experiences to share with family and friends. There are only two weeks to go until the festival opens on Tuesday 1 November. It’s time to get excited for upcoming events. Make sure to book your passes at asff.co.uk/tickets.
Top 10 events
1. Opening Night Ceremony
1 November 18:00-21:00 at City Screen
The Opening Night Ceremony launches the 12th edition of the film festival and is joined by a special screening of outstanding, inspiring and thought-provoking works from the 2021 Official Selection. This event is curated by Festival Director Cherie Federico, who welcomes audiences to the festival and introduces viewers to the breadth of the programme. This screening is an fun and interesting insight into what to expect from the festival.
2. Hey, Sunshine Party
2 November 20:00-23:00 at Doubletree by Hilton
The first party of the festival is a throwback to the 1970s and 1980s and features all the classics: The Stranglers, Blondie, David Bowie, Kate Bush, Abba and more. It is the perfect opportunity to grab a free gin and tonic (on a first come, first serve basis) and meet film enthusiasts. Pop in for a drink, make some new connections and ease yourself into the rest of the week.
3. Daily Networking Sessions
1-6 November | View online for specific times and venues
Collaborate and build relationships with the daily networking sessions. Each day of the in-person festival, a key organisation presents on an area of filmmaking – from generating ideas to refining your pitch – before offering individuals the chance to interact, spark dialogues and have their questions answered. These sessions are the perfect way to meet representatives from world-leading organisations, including BBC, Film4, StudioCanal and Guardian Documentaries. This is your opportunity to meet likeminded individuals and be inspired.
4. Masterclass: Studio AKA: Animating the World
2 November 13:30-14:30 at the Yorkshire Museum
Do you want to hear from the creators behind Hey Duggee? Multi-BAFTA-winning, Emmy-winning and Oscar-nominated Studio AKA are represented by Director Philip Hunt in an interesting talk on how the studio created its most iconic ideas. Studio AKA work for industry giants such as Apple, Netflix, BBC and Disney and are renowned for their commercials and title sequences. This masterclass takes place in the afternoon of Wednesday 2 November at York Explore.
5. Unite. Create. Transform. Fringe Event at Street Life
1-30 November at Street Life Hub, 29-31 Coney Street
Fringe Events are new to the festival this year and include Aesthetica’s partnership with Street Life Hub, who created Unite. Create. Transform, a group exhibition of nine artworks from award-winning contemporary artists. Discover art from incredible artists, including Kit Monkman, Jenn Nkiru, Natalia Garciá Clark and Omar Torres, amongst others, in an exhibition that encourages viewers to experience art in new and innovative ways.
6. Masterclass: Directing Comedy: Context, Timing and Pacing
2 November 16:30-17:30 at the Yorkshire Museum
Be part of an illuminating masterclass delivered by BAFTA-winning film and television director Tom Kingsley. Kingsley is best known for directing the first two series of the smash hit sitcom Ghosts and This is Going to Hurt, starring Ben Whishaw. In Directing TV Comedy: Context, Timing and Pacing, Kingsley discusses how to construct – and pull off – award-winning comedy.
7. Meet the Filmmakers
3 November 20:00-23:00 at Rose Within the Walls
If you’re looking for a relaxed but fun social event, head to Rose Within the Walls on Thursday from 8pm for Meet the Filmmakers. Facing one of York’s best-known historical landmarks – Clifford’s Tower – this casual social is the perfect location to make new acquaintances and meet with the Official Selection creators.
8. Masterclass: Making the Cut: An Editor’s Guide
5 November 13:30 at the Yorkshire Museum
Hear from an editor who’s played in role in some of the largest films and TV series, including The Crown and Oscar-winning Belfast. Carly Brown is an editor with 10 years’ experience and has worked for BBC, HBO, Disney+ and Sky. Her talk on Making the Cut discusses her journey from Assistant to Editor, as well as innovative advice on assembling and refining film footage.
9. Friday Night Party
4 November 20:00-23:00 at 1331
The renowned Friday Night Party is a film festival staple hosted by 1331. Located in York’s vibrant Grape Lane, the party helps to carry the festival into a weekend jam-packed with social events and inspiring cinema. It’s an ideal spot for joining in with the festivities or re-grouping with new friends. Grab a drink, connect with likeminded film enthusiasts and prepare for an incredible weekend.
10. Kids’ Workshops
5 & 6 November 10:00 and 14:00 at York St John Creative Centre
Alongside the incredible selection of Family Friendly screenings on offer at the film festival, this year, Aesthetica are launching Kids’ Workshops, where children can take part in practical sessions and develop their love of film. Young people have the opportunity to learn about different roles involved in film production – from director and camera operator to clapper loader – and can have their filmmaking questions answered. These sessions can be booked here.
The Aesthetica Film Festival takes place in-person 1-6 November. Watch a huge selection of screenings, events and masterclasses available On Demand until 30 November. Join in, be part of the largest cultural event in York this year and enjoy the best of independent film.
Discover the full range of events.
There are three ticket options: In-Person, Virtual or Hybrid. With #YorkDays, tickets start from £12.50 on Select Festival Dates.
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